Iran calls for prompt return to constitution in Niger

Iran has called for a “prompt return to democracy and the Constitution” in Niger after a deadly coup d’état and appealed to Nigeriens to show restraint and avoid any act that could endanger peace, stability, and unity in the West African nation.

“The Islamic Republic is assessing the situation and would like to see democracy and the rule of law returned to Niger as rapidly as possible, as it will definitely be beneficial to peace and security in the Sub-Saharan region of Africa,” Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast told reporters in Tehran on Saturday.

On Thursday, armed soldiers stormed the presidential palace in the capital Niamey in a hail of gunfire during broad daylight and kidnapped the country’s leader, President Mamadou Tandja. He is said to be detained in a military camp.

The junta that seized power in the coup in the Republic of Niger named a platoon commander as its leader Friday. The junta, which calls itself the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy, declared it was being led by Salou Djibo.

On Friday, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned the coup.

“The secretary general condemns the coup d’etat that took place in Niger” and “appeals for calm and for the respect of the rule of law and of the human rights of all Nigeriens,” his office said in a statement.

The African Union suspended Niger on Friday, one day after the coup in the uranium-rich country. “As of today, Niger will not be represented in our activities,” said Mull Sebujja Katende, who presides over the African Union’s Peace and Security Council.

“We have condemned the coup and imposed sanctions on Niger: Niger is suspended from all activities of the AU,” he added.